Situated in Uttarakhand state at an altitude of about 4632 meters above sea level, this Gurudwara is considered one of the holiest and most difficult pilgrimages in India. Built amidst rocky cliffs near a glacial lake, it is said that the Nishan Sahib flags sway here in the icy winds.
in today’s article we are going to tell you about Shri Hemkund Sahib. Why Shri Hemkund Sahib is famous, how you can reach here, where to stay, what food arrangements are there, and how much cost will come in your entire journey. We will explain to you step by step in detail so that you can easily plan your trip.
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How to Reach Hemkund Sahib
Now let’s tell you how you can come here. If you live in any city of India, first you have to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh.
- By Train: You can come easily by train.
- By Flight: You can fly to Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun. From there, take a bus or taxi to Rishikesh. The distance from the airport to Rishikesh bus stand is about 20 km.
After reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh, from the bus stand you have to take a bus to Govindghat. The distance from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Govindghat is about 275 km, and the fare comes around ₹400–₹500 per person.
Stay Options at Govindghat
Once you reach Govindghat, you can stay there. You get three options for accommodation:
- Gurudwara – Stay and food arrangements are available.
- Private Hotels – Rooms available from ₹1500 to ₹2000 depending on season.
- Guest Houses – You can also stay in government and private guest houses.
Govindghat also has medical services available for emergencies.
From Govindghat to Ghangaria
Next morning, you have to go from Govindghat to Ghangaria. The distance is about 10 km. You have two options:
- By Helicopter – Direct to Ghangaria. Fare is around ₹2895 per person one side.
- By Trekking – A trek of 10 km which takes around 4–5 hours.
Other transport options:
- Mules (Horse Ride) – ₹1200–₹1500 per person one side depending on weight.
- Palki (Palanquin) – ₹8000–₹11000 both sides, valid for about 4 km only, rest 2 km has to be covered by foot.
At Ghangaria, you can stay in:
- Private Hotels – ₹1500–₹5000 per room depending on facilities.
- Dormitories – Around ₹300 per bed.
- Gurudwara – Free stay and food service (Langar).
Food Arrangements at Ghangaria
Food is available at dhabas and hotels. A thali costs around ₹200–₹300. Because of the high altitude, food here is a bit costlier than plains.
Trek from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib
On the third day, early morning, start trekking from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib. The distance is about 6 km.
Options available:
- On Foot – Best option to experience the scenic beauty.
- Horse Ride – ₹1800–₹2000 one side, ₹2400–₹2600 both sides.
- Palki/Doli – Around ₹8000–₹11000 both sides depending on weight.
The trek has two routes:
- Normal Route – Longer but less tiring.
- Stepped Route – Shorter but more exhausting.
At Hemkund Sahib
Once you reach Hemkund Sahib, you can keep your shoes at the shoe stand (with token system). Then you can take a holy dip in Amrit Sarovar or sprinkle water. After that, proceed to the Gurudwara for darshan.
You can also enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and the variety of flowers in the region. After spending 2–3 hours, you have to return back as there is no stay option at Hemkund Sahib.
You can return to Ghangaria in the evening and stay there. The next day you can either trek back to Govindghat (13 km) or explore the Valley of Flowers trek.
Best Time to Visit Hemkund Sahib
The best time to visit is from June to October. September–October is considered the best season as the weather is clear and the route is safer.
Essential Items to Carry
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Warm clothes
- Raincoat / Umbrella
- Essential medicines
- Light snacks and energy bars
Overview Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Uttarakhand, India |
| Altitude | 4632 meters above sea level |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (20 km from Rishikesh) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Haridwar / Rishikesh |
| Distance Haridwar–Govindghat | 275 km |
| Trek Distance Govindghat–Ghangaria | 10 km |
| Trek Distance Ghangaria–Hemkund | 6 km |
| Helicopter Fare | ₹2895 per person (one side) |
| Horse Fare | ₹1200–₹2000 per person (one side) |
| Palki/Doli Fare | ₹8000–₹11000 both sides |
| Best Time to Visit | June to October |
| Stay Options | Gurudwara, Private Hotels, Guest Houses, Dormitories |
FAQs
Q1: Why is Hemkund Sahib famous?
A1: Hemkund Sahib is a sacred Sikh Gurudwara situated at 4632 meters above sea level, known for its spiritual importance and tough trekking route.
Q2: What is the best time to visit Hemkund Sahib?
A2: The best time is from June to October, with September–October being ideal due to clear weather.
Q3: How difficult is the trek to Hemkund Sahib?
A3: The trek is considered moderate to difficult. From Govindghat to Ghangaria it is 10 km, and from Ghangaria to Hemkund it is 6 km uphill.
Q4: What are the stay options available during the journey?
A4: You can stay in Gurudwaras, private hotels, guest houses, and dormitories available at Govindghat and Ghangaria.
Q5: Are food facilities available on the way?
A5: Yes, Langar is available in Gurudwaras, and private hotels and dhabas offer meals. A thali costs around ₹200–₹300.